PS5 prices are getting higher in some regions
Sony has just raised the price of the PS5 Digital Edition in Europe, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. In Europe, the console is now €499.99, up €50 from before, while in the UK it is £429.99, an increase of £40. The price rises to AUD $749.95 in Australia and NZD $859.95 in New Zealand. The increase does not apply to the disc-based PS5 or the future PS5 Pro.
The company says that ongoing global economic pressure, like inflation and currency instability, is the reason behind this decision. Sony isn’t the first to do such a thing; the company had previously increased prices in 2022 for reasons like these. However, many consumers don't buy Sony's explanation. Players are flooding online forums and comment sections with heated backlash, accusing Sony of choosing its profits over fairness and seeing the price cut for the optional disc drive version as rather a cheap consolation.
Critics also note that the US market is unscathed, and that theory is Sony is protecting its strongest sales region while other regions are taking the hit. This move will also be frustrating to fans as gaming has already become more expensive. It remains to be seen whether more price changes will follow, but trust in Sony has visibly deteriorated.
FAQs
Why is Sony increasing PS5 prices in certain regions?
If price hikes occur, Sony will cite high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates as the cause.
Are all the PS5 models affected by the increased price?
This applies to the PS5 Digital edition; the regular PS5 and its Pro version are not affected.
Are these price changes global?
No, the price increases are in place for Europe, the UK, Australia and New Zealand, but not in the US.
Has Sony adjusted prices for any PS5 accessories?
Yes, the price for the optional 4K Blu-Ray disc drive accessory has gone down.